Buzzcocks lead singer Pete Shelley has passed away at the age of 63.
The group’s management told the BBC that Shelley died yesterday (6th December) of a suspected heart attack, in his home in Estonia.
The news was announced publicly via Facebook by Gary McNeish, the lead singer’s brother.
McNeish wrote: “This is the hardest thing I have ever had to do, is tell you my brother Pete Shelley had a heart attack this morning and passed away.”
The influential rock band rose to fame with their 1978 hit, ‘Ever Fallen in Love With’.
Tributes have poured in for the late singer, among them ex-Sex Pistols bassist Glen Matlock, author Neil Gaiman and Tracy Thorn.
Oh God but I loved Buzzcocks. And Pete Shelley was an amazing songwriter. "But after all life's only death's recompense." RIP ♥️♥️ pic.twitter.com/vAAg7Jui52
— Tracey Thorn (@tracey_thorn) December 6, 2018
I am totally shocked and saddened to just hear of the untimely death of Pete Shelley.
A superb songwriter, artist and a totally sweet hearted guy who was one of the very few originals of punk and even a one off within that.
My deepest condolences to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/vqYRtYyf1C— Glen Matlock (@GlenMatlock) December 6, 2018
Part of my youth dies with him. https://t.co/gKpkmScCvc RIP Pete Shelley https://t.co/TsB6QLk2JI
— Neil Gaiman (@neilhimself) December 6, 2018
Paying tribute to Shelley, The Buzzcock’s said: “Pete’s music has inspired generations of musicians over a career that spanned five decades and with his band and as a solo artist, he was held in the highest regard by the music industry and by his fans around the world.”
